2011 Subaru Forester
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2011 Subaru Forester. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
16 recalls name the 2011 Subaru Forester. Newest first.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles. The front seat belt assembly force-limiter may not operate correctly in the event of a crash.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The seat belt assembly may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt assembly, if necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 9, 2022. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WRJ-22.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (STI included), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators with alternate inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester, 2003-2006 Baja, 2004-2011 Impreza, 2004-2014 WRX (including STI), 2003-2014 Legacy and Outback, and 2005-2006 Saab 9-2X vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger air bag inflators, free of charge. The recall began January 7, 2020. Subaru owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Saab owners may contact the Saab Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-20.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, 2008-2011 Impreza vehicles, 2008-2014 WRX vehicles, 2005-2014 Legacy vehicles, 2005-2014 Outback vehicles and 2006-2008 Tribeca vehicles equipped with a mechanical key ignition switch installed as a replacement part. The ball spring inside the switch may break, reducing the…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The engine turning off unexpectedly can increase the risk of a crash. If a crash occurs under this condition, the air bag may not deploy, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the ignition switch, replacing the ignition switch, if necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 10, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is WUF-91.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2013 Forester, 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, Legacy, and 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru has notified owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-19.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Outback, and Legacy vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKB-19.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2010-2014 Tribeca, WRX, Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2010-2011 Impreza vehicles and 2010-2013 Forester vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru is notifying owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on January 25, 2019. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-844-373-6614. Subaru's number for this recall is TKC-19.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2009-2013 Legacy, Forester, Tribeca, WRX and Outback vehicles, and 2009-2011 Impreza vehicles sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An explosion of an inflator within the passenger frontal air bag module may result in sharp metal fragments striking the front seat passenger, driver or other occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began on February 9, 2018. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-18.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain 2005-2006 Subaru Baja, 2006-2011 Impreza (including WRX and STI models), 2006-2012 Tribeca, 2009-2012 Forester, Legacy, Outback, and 2012 WRX vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began March 6, 2017. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-17.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2008-2014 Impreza vehicles and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, all equipped with turbo-charged engines. The relay that controls the secondary air injection pump may fail, causing the pump to continuously operate and overheat.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the air injection pump overheats, it may melt and increase the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the secondary air injection pump relay, free of charge. The recall began December 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WTM-73.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Legacy, Outback, 2009-2011 Legacy, Outback, Forester, 2006-2011 Impreza, Tribeca, 2003-2006 Baja, and 2006 Saab 9-2x vehicles originally sold or that have ever been registered in Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inflator rupture may result in metal fragments striking the vehicle occupants resulting in serious injury or death.
Remedy
Subaru will notify their owners. General Motors will notify Saab owners. Dealers will replace the passenger frontal air bag inflator, free of charge. The recall began August 26, 2016. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-856-488-8500. Saab owners may contact GM at 1-800-955-9007. Subaru's number for this recall is TKA-16.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2008-2011 Impreza, 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Brake fluid may leak due to the brake line corrosion and may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will apply an anti-corrosion wax to the four-way joint connector area of the brake line system, free of charge. The recall began on January 27, 2015. Owners may contact Subaru customer service at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's number for this recall is WQQ-52. Notes: This recall is specific to affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI customers who had their car remedied under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014. Subaru has determined that this remedy was inadequate due to incomplete repair instructions provided to dealers. Affected Forester, Impreza, WRX, and STI vehicles that were not repaired under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311 prior to December 23, 2014 will continue to be processed under NHTSA recall no. 14V-311. Affected vehicles not currently, or formerly, registered in the salt belt states identified in this recall are eligible for repair, at no cost to the customer, upon request.
Subaru of America, Inc. (Subaru) is recalling certain model year 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza and 2008-2014 Impreza WRX/STI, and 2009-2013 Forester vehicles, currently, or formerly, registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Brake line corrosion may result in brake fluid leakage. Fluid leakage may result in longer distances being required to slow or stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will test the brake system by depressing the brake pedal and inspecting for brake fluid leaks. If no brake fluid seepage is observed, the affected areas will be rustproofed with anti-corrosion wax. If brake fluid seepage is observed, the brake lines will be replaced followed by rustproofing with anti-corrosion wax. These services will be performed free of charge. The recall began July 2014 and second notifications will run through November 2014. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783. Subaru's recall campaign number is WQK-47. Note: This recall supersedes recall 13V-110 which applied to certain 2005-2009 Legacy/Outback vehicles. Vehicles that were remedied under the previous campaign still need additional areas rust-proofed.
Subaru is recalling certain model year 2010 and 2011 Legacy and Outback vehicles, certain model year 2006 through 2012 Tribeca vehicles sold before January 2012, and certain model year 2009 through 2012 Forester vehicles sold before January 2012. Up to 78,650 of these vehicles may have been equipped with accessory puddle lights that, when illuminated…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Over time, migration of the moisture into the circuit board and/or into the connector cavity, may result in a short circuit of the puddle light system. This may generate heat which may melt the plastic resulting in smoke or fire.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will install an additional fused-harness, free of charge. The recall began February 19, 2013. Owners may contact Subaru at 1-800-782-2783 for more information.
Subaru IS recalling certain model year 2009-2012 forester vehicles manufactured from november 26, 2007, through march 13, 2012. the automatic locking retractor in the seat belt assemblies located in the rear center seating of the affected vehicles do not meet lockability requirements and fail to comply with federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 208…
Risk and remedy
Risk
An insecure installation of a child restraint can increase the risk of injury to a child during a crash.
Remedy
Subaru will notify owners, and dealers will replace the rear center seat belt assembly with a newly modified automatic locking retractor, free of charge. an interim letter was mailed on march 26, 2012. owners may contact subaru at 1-800-782-2783.
Owner complaints
147 complaints21 involved a crash6 involved a fire4 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Engine
Concerned over oil being burnt up at a significant rate, have to add a quart per tank of gas. Theres distinct burnt oil smell after driving. Concerned my car needs to be included in the oil consumption recall.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Service brakes
I have a single-owner 2011 automatic-transmission Subaru Forester [145k miles]. In a parking lot, I started the car as usual and shifted into reverse. I immediately noticed another car was approaching behind me and reflexively pushed on the brake to give the oncoming vehicle the right of way. As I…
I have a single-owner 2011 automatic-transmission Subaru Forester [145k miles]. In a parking lot, I started the car as usual and shifted into reverse. I immediately noticed another car was approaching behind me and reflexively pushed on the brake to give the oncoming vehicle the right of way. As I pushed on the brake, the car suddenly and without warning surged backwards as the engine revved and "stuck" at a high rpm level. Surprised by the sudden loss of control and to stop the lunge backwards, I immediately released the brake pedal and shifted into neutral. I believe this reflexive action was solely attributable to my long history driving manual transmissions which "teaches" your brain that as an alternative to using the brake you can clutch [or if necessary "pop"] to neutral to disengage the engine from the wheels to control the vehicle. People without manual transmission experience would probably keep pressing the brake as their only option to regain control. The car stopped but the engine continued to rev at high rpms for a few moments then returned to normal rpms. No damages. This has never happened before and I was unable to duplicate the sequence of events which I tried to do immediately after the incident. I thought the gas pedal might be mechanically compromised ... for example by the floor mat ... but found no evidence of that. The incident remains a mystery mechanically, so all I can surmise is some electrical issue.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment, and the vehicle began to fill with smoke, prompting her to immediately stop and exit the vehicle. Upon exiting the vehicle, the contact…
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, she observed smoke emanating from the engine compartment, and the vehicle began to fill with smoke, prompting her to immediately stop and exit the vehicle. Upon exiting the vehicle, the contact observed that the vehicle had become engulfed in flames, and local emergency services were called. Local emergency services arrived and were able to extinguish the flames. No warning lights were illuminated. A fire report was filed, but a police report was not filed. The contact was treated at an area hospital for a stress-related gastrointestinal issue. The vehicle was towed to a tow yard and deemed a total loss by the contact's insurance provider. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but did not assist. The failure mileage was 102,000.
- Electrical system · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
My car randomly turns off when reducing speed. It caused an accident a few days ago. I have had multiple mechanics try to figure out the problem but the only thing that comes up on the diagnostic tool is it needed 1 coil replaced. They have all been replaced and still won't go away. The Che k…
My car randomly turns off when reducing speed. It caused an accident a few days ago. I have had multiple mechanics try to figure out the problem but the only thing that comes up on the diagnostic tool is it needed 1 coil replaced. They have all been replaced and still won't go away. The Che k engine light is on. And the car uses about a quart or more of oil everytime I fill up but has no leaks. When I reduce speed the car in traffic, around corners or to stop it constantly turns itself off. Starting it it sometimes turns itself off if I don't give it some gas at the same time. It smells like burning oil constantly.
- Vehicle speed control
unintended sudden acceleration defects without warning without driver input. I could kill & be killed. It can happen again! I backed up a little in an angle moving away from parking. Suddenly, without any warning, the car took off and frantically flew backward, passing a stop sign (offense)…
unintended sudden acceleration defects without warning without driver input. I could kill & be killed. It can happen again! I backed up a little in an angle moving away from parking. Suddenly, without any warning, the car took off and frantically flew backward, passing a stop sign (offense), crossing the main road 4 lanes, perpendicular to the marked lanes (offense), mounted on the sidewalk and landed on a private property breaking bushes. It happened sooo fast! I could not figure out what happened! If a car was travelling in the main road, both of us might have been seriously injured or died! The police gave me a citation for two civil offenses and “negligently operating MV” which is a criminal offense. The Police demanded to suspend my license! I am scheduled by the police for a court hearing, demanding to issue a criminal claim against me, arraign me as a criminal and stand a criminal trial! I few days ago I backed up in an angle out of my driveway to Rte-9 which is a major Road/highway as I have been doing for years with no problem. The same phenomena happened: the car accelerated frantically, turned in a circle and stopped by hitting a telephone pole! If the car approaching did not stop I found out that numerous complaints and more than one law-suit filed against Subaru 2012-2018. Mine is 2011. Thousands of dollars in legal fees, being sued for property damages, getting driving points, increased insurance for years, badly damaging my car. This might happen! Should I even touch this car again?
- Engine
We have come to learn that our 2011 Forester with 95,229 miles is now burning (internally) oil at an alarming rate. The car was making a funny noise so we had it towed to the dealership and they found it was low by 4.8 quarts of oil. The last oil change was at 91,749 and this issue was discovered…
We have come to learn that our 2011 Forester with 95,229 miles is now burning (internally) oil at an alarming rate. The car was making a funny noise so we had it towed to the dealership and they found it was low by 4.8 quarts of oil. The last oil change was at 91,749 and this issue was discovered at 95,229 or 3480 miles driven and 4.8 quarts of oil is "missing". The dealer advised there is no signs of leaks from under the car and where we have it parked, there are no oil spots on the pavement. I have come to learn that in August 2014 then again in April 2016 there was a service bulletin on this engine due to oil consumption. The notice indicated that they (Subaru) was extending the powertrain warranty to 8 years / 100,000 miles. Sadly, we are past the 8 years but not the 100,000 miles.
- Engine · Steering
I bought my vehicle new from Oakland Subaru. From the beginning I had to add about a quart of oil every month and a half to two months. I thought this was normal. When my vehicle had approximately 73,800miles, I went to Fremont Subaru for a regular motor oil change. I was asked about the oil…
I bought my vehicle new from Oakland Subaru. From the beginning I had to add about a quart of oil every month and a half to two months. I thought this was normal. When my vehicle had approximately 73,800miles, I went to Fremont Subaru for a regular motor oil change. I was asked about the oil consumption. After I reported how much oil I had been replacing on a regular basis, they asked me to return after 1,200 miles to see how much oil my car had consumed. They found out that my vehicle had oil leaks and the engine had to be replaced at 75,000 miles. Subaru paid for the service to be done. Today I took my vehicle to Fremont Subaru for a regular motor oil change which I usually do. My vehicle currently has 134,605 miles. The service representative, Devon Devlugt, informed me that my vehicle is unsafe to operate due to several oil leaks from the engine. The engine has less than 60,000 miles since it was replaced. This is the second time my vehicle becomes inoperable due to engine oil leaks. Fremont Subaru dealership will repair the engine for $4,687. Kelly Blue Book estimates my vehicle to be worth $4,700. Subaru must be held accountable for the vehicles they sell to consumers. My vehicle has had this problem since I bought it. There have been enough vehicles presenting this problem that Subaru paid for my vehicle’s engine to be replaced. Please hold Subaru responsible for engine failures/malfunctions.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, she depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that his wife used the parking brake to stop vehicle. The service brake warning light was…
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed, she depressed the brake pedal however, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact stated that his wife used the parking brake to stop vehicle. The service brake warning light was illuminated prior to the failure. The contact then stated that upon inspecting under the hood of the vehicle, he noticed a brake fluid leak. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the brake line was rusted and needed to be replaced. The contact then stated that he was informed of Manufacturer Recall Number: WQK-47 and NHTSA Campaign Number 14V311000 (Service Brakes, Hydraulic). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and the contact was provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 108,000.
- Engine
The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while parking the vehicle, there was a rattling noise coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Findlay Subaru St. George (1453 Sunland Dr, St. George, UT 84790) where it…
The contact's daughter owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated while parking the vehicle, there was a rattling noise coming from the engine compartment. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Findlay Subaru St. George (1453 Sunland Dr, St. George, UT 84790) where it was diagnosed that the short block assembly needed to be replaced; however, no repair was completed, and the engine oil was refilled. The contact was made aware of Technical Service Bulletin: 02-157-14R (Surface Treatment Change to Oil Control Piston Rings); however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The vehicle was then taken to Subaru Sherman Oaks (5747 Van Nuys Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91401), where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to an oil leak. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 99,600.
- Engine
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the dealer performed an oil consumption test and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle…
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the dealer performed an oil consumption test and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact related the failure to Technical Service Bulletin: 02-157-14R (Surface Treatment Change to Oil Control Piston Rings) however, the vehicle was not covered under the TSB. The failure mileage was approximately 102,000.
- Air bags
I have tried to get the recall on airbag replaced to no avail, just alot of lip service and never any follow-up on repair of air bag. I am extremely ticked off that the very last current notification by mail this july 2022. I included a copy of it where it states DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO SIT IN…
I have tried to get the recall on airbag replaced to no avail, just alot of lip service and never any follow-up on repair of air bag. I am extremely ticked off that the very last current notification by mail this july 2022. I included a copy of it where it states DO NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO SIT IN FRONT-PASSENGER SEAT UNTIL THE AIRBAG RECALL REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED ON YOUR VEHICAL. This say to me that Subaru is covering the butts by telling me it will be my fault if injury occurs yet subaru skirts around not repairing on Recall Code TKB19. Relieves them of no responsibilty. Also this notification clearly states alternative transportation options- loaner car, round trip towing, shuttles. I have yet had anyone call or address this issue other then telling me to text "FIX" or call 800 number which I have done quite a few times. I would appreciate that you will respond to me that you will do something other then ignoring me. You will be sure that if anything happens there will be an attorney involved. Subaru needs to honor this Recall or why even bother to send out notices constantly .
- Vehicle speed control
Driving a 2011 Subaru Forester, about 5mph in traffic on city street when car suddenly and unexpectedly accelerated at full gas and rammed into truck in front of me, with no pressure on the gas pedal. Slamming on brakes and pulling on hand brake was not enough to override the unexpected and…
Driving a 2011 Subaru Forester, about 5mph in traffic on city street when car suddenly and unexpectedly accelerated at full gas and rammed into truck in front of me, with no pressure on the gas pedal. Slamming on brakes and pulling on hand brake was not enough to override the unexpected and unasked-for acceleration. I can only imagine what would have happened if there were pedestrians or if I'd been going faster. Subaru should be absolutely ashamed - in researching this, I've learned that they KNOW that this happens, but refuse to create a recall. Shame on you, Subaru.
- Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
Thousands of Subarus are developing leaking cam carriers which can cause the vehicles to stall due to oil loss. There are online threads with many, many owners reporting their vehicles developed this problem - many with low mileage. My vehicle developed the problem with about 40,000 miles on the…
Thousands of Subarus are developing leaking cam carriers which can cause the vehicles to stall due to oil loss. There are online threads with many, many owners reporting their vehicles developed this problem - many with low mileage. My vehicle developed the problem with about 40,000 miles on the odometer. This vehicle should be recalled. Dealerships are making a fortune fixing these vehicles, often charging close to $3,000.
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine › Oil/lubrication › Pump
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that she noticed an abnormal odor coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the…
The contact owns a 2011 Subaru Forester. The contact stated that she noticed an abnormal odor coming from the exhaust. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the seals needed to be replaced. Additionally, the spark plug gaskets and gasket rocker needed to be replaced. The contact stated that the dealer removed the engine and replaced both cam carrier covers. The contact stated that she drove the vehicle for the next three years and experienced a recurrence of the odor from the exhaust. Additionally, the "check engine oil" warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven to the dealer who diagnosed the failure as a failed oil consumption test and recommended that all the seals be replaced yet again. The contact stated that the vehicle was not repaired but was pending repairs. The vehicle was driven back to her residence. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 120,400.
- Seats
Front right side of driver’s seat has collapsed. Possibly due to a broken bracket or weld.
- Air bags
I have received multiple letters to fix my Subarus air bag. It was fixed once after a long wait for parts. The second required fix is proving hard to set up. I called a Subaru fix line, waited an hour while they try to schedule, then was disconnected. I called back, same long wait and they can…
I have received multiple letters to fix my Subarus air bag. It was fixed once after a long wait for parts. The second required fix is proving hard to set up. I called a Subaru fix line, waited an hour while they try to schedule, then was disconnected. I called back, same long wait and they can not call you back if disconnected (I asked if they could as I was just disconnected and had to start over). I tried to explain to them in Hawaii we live on islands and cannot drive to other ones so it must be scheduled on my (Maui) island. They said they knew that (I even gave them the address of Subaru Maui). I waited on hold another 1/2 hour then got an email. I was scheduled a month later on - another island. I called back, waited again (they seemed more concerned with canceling my appointment the getting me a new one). After a very long series of transfers I was connected with Subaru Maui. They told me they (service dept) can't schedule them (only mangers can schedule air bag appointments) but they will have a manager call me back. I asked when and they said a week or two. Its been a week but I have not heard anything. I wrote Subaru with my issue and got a auto reply telling thanking me for being an owner and how great their cares are. No acknowledgment of my problem. The letters stress the importance of getting it done, but Subaru makes it very hard.
- Unknown or other
As I drove into my driveway smoke started coming out of engine compartment. Behind and under vehicle was a massive leak of either oil or transmission fluid. No warning lights were observed and vehicle was running fine while we were out. The entire vehicle was quickly engulfed in flames and burned to the ground before firefighters arrived.
- Engine
Leaky cylinder head gaskets made oil leak into cooling system. Car began rattling and engine warning lights all came on. Subaru knows this IS an issues with this and may other years cars yet refuses to do anything about it. Looking at a costly $3K fix. Not drivable otherwise. Luckily it didn't fail on us while driving.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2011 subaru forester. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was taken to a. Crivelli subaru (768 allegheny blvd, franklin, pa 16323) and an oil consumption test was performed. The result confirmed that the vehicle was…
TL* the contact owns a 2011 subaru forester. The contact stated that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The vehicle was taken to a. Crivelli subaru (768 allegheny blvd, franklin, pa 16323) and an oil consumption test was performed. The result confirmed that the vehicle was consuming an excessive amount of engine oil. The contact was informed that the short block assembly needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and offered to partially cover the cost of the repair. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 120,000.
- Vehicle speed control
This happened while driving through colorado, from crested butte to telluride. I was driving with the cruise control active. As the car went up hills it would automatically shift down, causing the engine to rev into the 4,000 rpm range, which IS not safe to drive sustained. In order to combat this…
This happened while driving through colorado, from crested butte to telluride. I was driving with the cruise control active. As the car went up hills it would automatically shift down, causing the engine to rev into the 4,000 rpm range, which IS not safe to drive sustained. In order to combat this I used the manu-matic system to hold the transmission in the higher gear. After a while my check engine light came on. Concurrently, the traction control indicator light came on, and the cruise control light began blinking. Thinking it was an overheating issue, I stopped the car and waited a while. After a few cycles of drive/stop/drive/stop, the lights turned off. Thinking the issue was resolved, we continued on to telluride. Leaving telluride, however, with the same driving behavior, the issue returned, only worse now. When the lights came on the accelerator stopped responding. We were headed uphill at 65mph on a narrow two lane road, with a steep drop off the side, and multiple cars behind us. I pressed the accelerator all the way down and the car did not respond at all. This caused us to begin rapidly decelerating, which was extremely unsafe given the conditions. We pulled over and turned off the car. After a short while of sitting on the side of the road, I turned the car back on and the issue had ceased. The intermittent nature of this issue IS scary - at any moment the accelerator may cease to respond, potentially causing a life threatening scenario. upon reaching our destination, a friend had a code scanner and pulled code "p2138 - throttle pedal position sensor switch d e voltage correlation." there's no official documentation from subaru, that I could find, on the issue, and browsing various subaru forums turns up a lot more questions than answers.
- Fuel/propulsion system
On two occasions when braking to a stop the engine has surged accelerating the car against the braking. this surging has caused the car to almost hit the car in front and on the other occasion caused the car to change path of travel while approaching the garage.
- Unknown or other
A fire started in the engine compartment after a few minutes of apparently normal driving. The fire eventually destroyed the vehicle. The cause(s) of the fire was not determined
- Air bags · Engine
2011 subaru forester. Consumer writes in regards to several recall notices received for vehicle. *Ld the consumer stated the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time completing the recall repairs. *Js
- Engine
While backing out of my driveway the intake valve spring broke and dropped the valve into the cylinder causing thousands of dollars to repair
- Engine
This model has burned a large amount of oil. I have to refill with 1-2 quarts of oil between changes and even more if we drive car for long periods of time. I had taken vehicle at about 40,000 miles because of the smell of burnt oil would come from the block, but there wasn't a sign of leakage…
This model has burned a large amount of oil. I have to refill with 1-2 quarts of oil between changes and even more if we drive car for long periods of time. I had taken vehicle at about 40,000 miles because of the smell of burnt oil would come from the block, but there wasn't a sign of leakage anywhere. The dealership held the car for a couple of days and determined that it was the main oil seals that needed to be replaced. $3200 later and the problem was not fixed. Since the vehicle was out of warranty, it was too costly to keep bringing vehicle in for the same problem. After doing some research, I found a bold forum where hundreds of owners had the same issue and subaru of america was not willing to listen and do a mandatory recall for this obvious problem. When I called corporate customer service, they told me I was over the allowed mileage for this problem to be fixed. My problem with this was that they never sent out a notice or message related the possible problem many could be encountering. They stated that the only fix was to replace the engine block which would cost me over $5000. This problem IS a major one because the vehicle burns almost 2 quarts of oil every 1500 miles or so. If not regularly checked and refilled, the engine can burn due to the lack of oil. It IS becoming extremely expensive since a quart of oil IS about $10. I still don't understand how this problem continues to be present and subaru has not yet taken care of its loyal customers. At this point, as soon as I can afford it, I will buy another vehicle and subaru will not be on my to buy list in the future again. I will also not recommend any of my acquaintances to purchase a subaru in the future as well. *tr
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010925This annocement is to inform dealers to the Gen 3.1 Head Unit OTA will be available via Wi-Fi. The update will take place in multiple batches with the first beginneing November 15th and the last being Decemeber 3rd. This update is for approximatelt 714,000 VINs.
- 11009701This bulletin details an important regulation issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) which impacts the way some vehicles with accessories are sold. This regulation applies to any automobile retailer installing accessories on a vehicle prior to its first sale.
- 11009685This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008283This Service Information Bulletin announces the preferred practices to be used when handling vehicles equipped with Gen2 Telematics which are enrolled in the Subaru STARLINK Security Plus Service featuring Stolen Vehicle Recovery Plus with Immobilizer.
- 11008282This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11008281This Service Information Bulletin announces the diagnostic procedures to be followed when diagnosing engine oil leakage on FA and FB type engines.
- 11008280This Service Information bulletin is being released as guidance for proper testing and charging of vehicle batteries.
- 11008279This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure.
- 11008276The CP1.5 RCs OTA is available for all mid and high grade CP1.5 head units.
- 11008267This bulletin announces availability of the NEW genuine Subaru engine oil filter.
- 11008259This bulletin outlines the judgment criteria to be used when inspecting front transverse link bushings to reduce unnecessary bushing replacement.
- 11006935This bulletin contains illustrations of exchange components and their manufacturer as well as a description of the proper exchange procedure for 2025MY vehicles.
- 11006934The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 11006932This Service Information Bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when the Data Communication Module (DCM) is being tested as a dark current/standby current source.
- 11006931This Bulletin provides additional diagnostics to follow when addressing a Telematics-related DTC B2A16.
- 11005624This annoucement provides parts personnel information about remanufactured transmissions that will no longer be available.
- 11005615This announcement provides information for retailers to install the latest infotainment system software for Denso CP 1.5.
- 11005614This bulletin announces important diagnostic information to utilize when testing the Data Communication Module (DCM) as a dark current/standby current source. All models equipped with Telematics except Solterra.
- 11005609This announcement provides information on Takata Recall Escalated Towing Program.
- 11005608This thermo control valve video contains information on the replacement of thermo control valve.
- 11005599This Bulletin provides SOA paint codes to help eliminate possible confusion for 2025 MY vehicles.
- 11005595This bulletin contains additional information for recommended materials listed in the Service Manuals for individual models.
- 11005593This Bulletin provides guidance for diagnosing a leaking front or rear suspension strut.
- 11002730This information announces reprograming file availability for Gen 4.5 Denso CP1.5 Audio and Navigation systems. Inprovement for CarPlay concerns with hands-free calls when the receiving party is not able to hear the caller.
- 11002725This bulletin provides diagnosis and procedure information to be applied when diagnosing potential fluid leaks on front and rear brake calipers. This information has been developed to reduce unnecessary brake caliper replacement.
- 10248224SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain Subaru vehicles listed, equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger side frontal airbag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (certain specific vehicles only).
- 10248223SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10244915SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC. has determined that a defect, which relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in certain 2003-2014 model year Legacy and Outback vehicles, 2003-2006 model year Baja vehicles, 2009-2013 model year Forester vehicles, 2004-2011 model year Impreza vehicles, and 2004- 2014 WRX (including STI) vehicles equipped with a non-desiccated Takata-sourced passenger-side frontal air bag containing the propellant Phase Stabilized Ammonium Nitrate (PSAN).
- 10241801The purpose of this bulletin is to provide replacement key and immobilizer information along with an overview of the Subaru Lock Information web-site.
- 10240110This bulletin announces the recommended cleaning procedures to followed when encountering vehicles with long time exposure to pollen on painted surfaces on vehicles imported from Japan. This bulletin does not apply to SIA built vehicles.
- 10237234Takata Front Passenger Airbag Module / Inflator Like for Like Recall
- 10235958Rear Seat Center Seatbelt
- 10235930Service Procedure for Replacement of the Bluetooth Microphone for Kenwood Audio / Navigation Systems
- 10235912Surface Treatment Change To Oil Control Piston Rings
- 10235911Intercooler/Intake Air Duct
- 10235902Countermeasure Thermostat Availability for DTC P0128
- 10235894Revision to Troubleshooting Information for VDC DTC C0071
- 10235882Optional Genuine Subaru Puddle Lights
- 10235881Preliminary Inspection and Repair Procedure for Puddle Light Campaign WQE-41
- 10235852Service Manual Corrections
Every Subaru Forester model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.